Tamarindo: Costa Rica's Surfing Hotspot
Experience the pura vida in Tamarindo, Costa Rica: surf, sun, eco-adventures, and vibrant nightlife await on the golden coast.
Tamarindo, located in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, is a vibrant beach town renowned for its world-class surfing, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches. Once a small fishing village, it has transformed into a popular destination for surfers, eco-tourists, and expatriates.
A brief summary to Tamarindo
- Tamarindo, Guanacaste Province, CR
Local tips
- Take a surf lesson! Tamarindo is an excellent place for beginners to learn how to surf, with many surf schools offering lessons.
- Explore nearby beaches like Playa Langosta and Playa Grande, each offering a unique atmosphere and activities.
- Visit Las Baulas National Marine Park to witness the nesting of leatherback sea turtles between November and April.
- Enjoy a sunset catamaran cruise for breathtaking views, snorkeling, and an open bar.
- Try local cuisine at the El Mercadito de Tamarindo Food and Cocktail Market for a taste of authentic Costa Rican flavors.
Getting There
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Walking
Tamarindo is a compact town, and many attractions are easily accessible on foot. From the center of town, you can walk to Tamarindo Beach, restaurants, and shops. Be aware of the heat and humidity, especially during the day.
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Public Transport
Local buses connect Tamarindo with nearby towns like Liberia and Santa Cruz. The bus from Liberia to Tamarindo costs approximately 1,350 Colones (around $3 USD). Buses are a budget-friendly option, but travel times can be longer.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Tamarindo. You can find them in front of Hotel Diria and Plaza Conchal. A 5km taxi ride in Tamarindo costs around 4,169.7 CRC. Confirm the fare before starting your journey.
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Ferry/Water Taxi
To reach Playa Grande from Tamarindo, take a short water taxi ride across the Tamarindo Estuary. The cost is approximately $2 USD per person. These small boats operate frequently throughout the day.
Discover more about Tamarindo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
L' Estanco El Jardin Escondido
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Discover a hidden culinary gem in Tamarindo, offering a fusion of local and international flavors in an enchanting garden setting.
Plaza Tamarindo
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Experience the vibrant heart of Tamarindo at Plaza Tamarindo: shopping, dining, and local culture in one lively destination. Open daily!
La Oveja Surf House
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Tamarindo's vibrant surf hub: Restaurant, bar, surf school, and shop, all in one laid-back location near the beach.
El Garito
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Tamarindo's premier underground house music destination, offering a vibrant nightlife experience under the stars with great music and drinks.
Rumors Tamarindo
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Experience Tamarindo's vibrant nightlife at Rumors, where live music, delicious food, and crafted cocktails create unforgettable evenings.
Selina Tamarindo
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Experience vibrant Tamarindo: surf, coworking, community, and unforgettable Costa Rican adventures at Selina, your beachfront oasis.
Tamarindo Farmer's Market
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Experience Tamarindo's vibrant culture at the weekly Farmer's Market, a lively showcase of local flavors, crafts, and community spirit.
Coral Reef Surf Hostel and Camp
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Experience Tamarindo's surf culture at Coral Reef Hostel: budget-friendly, social vibes, and steps from the beach!
El Santuario
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Tamarindo at El Santuario, offering a diverse menu and romantic ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Surf Shack Burgers & Wings
0.2 km
Tamarindo's favorite spot for juicy burgers, crispy wings, and a laid-back surf vibe. A must-visit for classic American comfort food with a Costa Rican twist.
Pikatas Tamarindo
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Pikatas Tamarindo, where creative cuisine meets a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Tropic Tamarindo
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Discover reinvented Costa Rican cuisine in a vibrant, jungle-inspired setting near Tamarindo beach. Fresh flavors, unique cocktails, unforgettable dining.
Casa Pura Vida Surf Hostel-Tamarindo Costa Rica
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Experience the 'Pura Vida' at Tamarindo's vibrant surf hostel: community vibes, lush gardens, and steps from world-class waves!
Jardín Tamarindo Food Truck Park
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Experience a world of flavors at Jardín Tamarindo Food Truck Park, a vibrant culinary destination in the heart of Tamarindo, Costa Rica.
Nogui's Restaurant
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Experience Tamarindo's history and flavors at Nogui's Restaurant, a beachfront tradition since 1974. Fresh seafood, local dishes, and stunning sunsets.
Unmissable attractions to see
Arenas Adventures Tours
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Discover the best of Guanacaste with Arenas Adventures Tours, offering thrilling excursions and unforgettable experiences in Tamarindo.
SWEET Costa Rica
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Explore the enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture of Costa Rica with SWEET Costa Rica, your trusted travel agency in Tamarindo.
Volcano Tours Costa Rica
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Explore Costa Rica's volcanoes with guided tours from Tamarindo. Hike, relax in hot springs, and discover the country's natural beauty.
Splash Buggy Tour - Tourism Agency (Tamarindo)
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Explore Tamarindo's natural beauty through thrilling ATV rides and scenic boat tours, perfect for adventure lovers visiting Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Tamarindo Diving Center Davide Gabbi
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Explore the vibrant underwater life at Tamarindo Diving Center, where adventures await in Costa Rica's stunning marine paradise.
Guaitil Pottery Studio
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Discover the beauty of Costa Rican craftsmanship at Guaitil Pottery Studio in Tamarindo, where tradition meets artistry.
Mantaraya Adventures - Tamarindo ATV Tours
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Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica with Mantaraya Adventures' exhilarating ATV tours in Tamarindo.
Timarouba Sailing Catamaran
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Experience Tamarindo's stunning sunsets and marine life on a sailing catamaran tour with snorkeling, kayaking, open bar, and delicious cuisine.
Scuba Dive Costa Rica | Tamarindo
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Experience the vibrant underwater world of Costa Rica at Scuba Dive Costa Rica in Tamarindo, where adventure awaits beneath the waves.
Bubble Scuba Diving School Tamarindo
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Dive into adventure at Bubble Scuba Diving School in Tamarindo, where unforgettable underwater experiences await in Costa Rica's stunning marine landscapes.
Be Water Diving center Tamarindo
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Experience the underwater wonders of Tamarindo, Costa Rica, with Be Water Diving Center - your gateway to unforgettable diving adventures.
Evasion diving
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Explore the vibrant underwater world of Tamarindo with Evasion Diving, your gateway to unforgettable scuba adventures in Costa Rica's stunning marine landscapes.
Diving Nomads
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Explore the vibrant underwater world at Diving Nomads in Tamarindo, a top diving center for all skill levels in beautiful Costa Rica.
Native's Way Costa Rica - Tours and Transfers
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Experience Costa Rica like never before with Native's Way Tours and Transfers, your trusted partner for unforgettable adventures in Tamarindo.
Sea breeze Fishing & Adventures
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Discover the exhilarating world of Sea Breeze Fishing & Adventures in Tamarindo, where thrilling aquatic experiences meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Falafel Bar
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Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Falafel Bar in Tamarindo - where fresh flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Antichi Sapori Tamarindo
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Experience the essence of Southern Italian cuisine at Antichi Sapori Tamarindo—where every meal is a celebration of flavors.
Tamaki Nikkei Sushi
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Discover the perfect blend of traditional Japanese flavors and local ingredients at Tamaki Nikkei Sushi in Tamarindo.
It's a Wrap
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Discover delicious wraps infused with local flavors at It's a Wrap in Tamarindo – where fast food meets culinary creativity.
LUNATICO Cocina & Bar
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Discover the vibrant culinary scene at LUNATICO Cocina & Bar in Tamarindo - where local flavors meet international cuisine in a lively setting.
Green Papaya Taco Bar
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Experience authentic Costa Rican tacos at Green Papaya Taco Bar in Tamarindo – where every bite is a taste adventure.
Longboard BBQ
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Experience authentic American barbecue at Longboard BBQ in Tamarindo – where flavor meets fun in a tropical paradise.
Sazon Criollo Tamarindo
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Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Sazon Criollo Tamarindo—where every dish tells a flavorful story in an inviting atmosphere.
NOI Bistro
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Discover exquisite local cuisine at NOI Bistro in Tamarindo – where fresh flavors meet vibrant coastal ambiance.
Enea's La Vera Cucina Italiana
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Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Enea's La Vera Cucina Italiana in Tamarindo - where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Wild Panda
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Experience vibrant flavors at Wild Panda in Tamarindo - where local meets global in a lively restaurant-bar setting.
La Boca Tamarindo
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Discover La Boca Tamarindo: A culinary gem offering delightful pasta dishes, refreshing cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere in beautiful Costa Rica.
Pizzeria La Baula
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Experience mouthwatering pizzas made with fresh ingredients in the vibrant atmosphere of Tamarindo at Pizzeria La Baula.
Walter's Place Bar & Restaurant
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Discover the lively ambiance and delicious flavors at Walter's Place Bar & Restaurant in Tamarindo - a true taste of Costa Rica!
Elcaribeentamarindo
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Discover family-friendly dining at Elcaribeentamarindo in Tamarindo - where delicious meals and warm hospitality await!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Papaya Con Leche
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Explore the vibrant world of swimwear at Papaya Con Leche in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, where beach fashion meets tropical flair.
Casa Mare Tamarindo
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Experience the vibrant styles of Costa Rica at Casa Mare Tamarindo, where local craftsmanship meets modern fashion in a stunning coastal setting.
OBJECT - Concept Store
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Explore OBJECT - Concept Store in Tamarindo for unique artisanal finds and stylish souvenirs that capture the spirit of Costa Rica.
BENDITA
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Explore BENDITA in Tamarindo for the latest in women's fashion, blending local flair with contemporary style in a tropical paradise.
Studio P Tienda
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Discover unique Costa Rican craftsmanship at Studio P Tienda, a boutique in Tamarindo offering handcrafted goods that embody local culture and artistry.
El Taller Secreto - Handmade Souvenir
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Discover the essence of Costa Rican craftsmanship at El Taller Secreto, your go-to destination for unique handmade souvenirs in Tamarindo.
Guana Tribe Souveniers
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Explore Guana Tribe Souveniers for unique Costa Rican crafts, authentic gifts, and vibrant local culture in the heart of Tamarindo.
Double six
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Explore Double Six Boutique in Tamarindo for stylish beachwear and unique accessories that embody the vibrant Costa Rican lifestyle.
Rent A Carrito Tamarindo
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Discover Costa Rica's stunning landscapes with ease at Rent A Carrito, your go-to destination for car rentals in Tamarindo.
Casita Tamarindo
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Discover the charm of local craftsmanship at Casita Tamarindo, a unique store filled with authentic Costa Rican artisan goods.
Boca Brava Skate and Surf - Tamarindo
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Explore Boca Brava Skate and Surf in Tamarindo for trendy surf apparel and immerse yourself in the vibrant local beach culture.
Áurea Concept Store
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Explore the charm of Áurea Concept Store in Tamarindo, where unique, locally-sourced treasures await every traveler.
Buena Nena Tamarindo
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Explore the vibrant fashion of Costa Rica at Buena Nena Tamarindo, where local style meets tropical flair.
Guana Beachwear
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Discover unique, locally designed beachwear at Guana Beachwear in Tamarindo, capturing the vibrant spirit of Costa Rica's coastal life.
MY LITTLE PARIS
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Discover unique fashion accessories at My Little Paris in Tamarindo, where style meets the vibrant spirit of Costa Rica.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lizard Lounge Tamarindo
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Lizard Lounge Tamarindo, a top tapas destination in the heart of Tamarindo's bustling nightlife.
Sharky’s Sports Bar
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Dive into the fun at Sharky’s Sports Bar in Tamarindo – your go-to spot for sports, food, and vibrant nightlife in Costa Rica.
Kinky Tamarindo
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kinky Tamarindo, a lively bar known for its drag performances, creative cocktails, and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tamarindo.
Suck my Cocktails
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Experience the ultimate cocktail adventure at Suck my Cocktails in Tamarindo, where vibrant nightlife and handcrafted drinks await.
Monkey La-La
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing cocktails at Monkey La-La, the ultimate bar in Tamarindo, Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica.
CATA Agave Bar
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Experience the best of Tamarindo nightlife at CATA Agave Bar, where craft cocktails and breathtaking sunsets unite in a lively atmosphere.
El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club
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Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at El Be - Tamarindo Beach Club, a must-visit restaurant in Costa Rica.
Glenn’s Cocktails
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Discover vibrant cocktails and a lively atmosphere at Glenn’s Cocktails in Tamarindo, Costa Rica's tropical paradise.
Volcano Brewing Company
0.7 km
Discover the heart of craft brewing at Volcano Brewing Company in Tamarindo, where local flavors and vibrant atmosphere meet.
Surf Club Bar & Grill
1.4 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica with a beachfront dining adventure at Surf Club Bar & Grill, the perfect spot for families and sports fans alike.
Chop House
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Chop House in Tamarindo, a must-visit for gourmet burgers, tapas, and a lively sports bar experience.
Hazel's Steak & Seafood
16.7 km
Experience the finest steaks and seafood in Flamingo, Costa Rica, at Hazel's Steak & Seafood, where flavor meets stunning views.
Restaurante Pleamar
16.9 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Pleamar, a beachfront dining experience in Playa Flamingo with stunning Pacific views.
Donna Maria
17.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Donna Maria, the ideal bar in Playa Flamingo for cocktails, local flavors, and unforgettable sunsets.
The Beach House Bar and Restaurant
17.1 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at The Beach House Bar and Restaurant, where ocean views and delicious cuisine meet a perfect tropical escape.